Technology Used for Businesses in Natural Disaster Zones

As so often happens, for businesses located in natural disaster zones, its technology to the rescue—before, during, and after disaster strikes. As the game is usually won before it begins, and an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, the technology a business applies in advance is by far the most valuable. Many solutions can be met through metro Ethernet in these areas.

Technology Makes for Better Alert Systems

Disaster alert systems with early warning signals get people moving quickly on response activities, but can also trigger automated reactions by devices that help mitigate harmful effects of disasters. Wireless emergency data created can be transmitted:

Over any sort of wireless data network, e.g., 4G, satellite, local area network, digital radio or television etc.

Twitter’s new alert system transmits alert information from fire and rescue agencies (and other important organizations) to the broader public instantly. Alert tweets are specially marked, delivering critical information quickly and effectively in times of natural disasters or other emergencies. Users who sign up for the service also get text notifications separately.
Technology Protects the Digital Resources

A business hit by fire or floods can lose computer functioning—and all the data stored on them. Disaster-proof computer hardware, like that from ioSafe, works like an aircraft black box for data files, withstanding temperatures up to 1,500 degrees, or submerged water of 10 feet for up to 72 hours. Even at $900 for two terabytes of storage, the device is less expensive than most of the cloud-based services available.

Cheaper still, and seeming a little retro-tech in comparison, is the simple use of flash drives by staff—in full compliance with company data security guidelines, of course. With proper application of early alert systems even more data, and computer equipment, can be saved.
Technology Helps Get People to Safety

As valuable as computer data might be in this Information Age, when intellectual property is king, getting the people out of harm’s way safely is still far more important. Apps that turn smartphones into emergency exit guides—with calm, Siri-like soothing commands—operate together with external search devices to indicate number and location of those in need to rescue teams. Advanced lighting systems survive the harshest conditions, while providing maximum safety illumination.
Technology Can be Three-Dimensionally Enticing

Where technology is taking disaster preparedness for urban planners and managers directly effects individual businesses in natural disaster zones. HINT: they’re going 3D. With digital, three-dimensional models of a city and urban area decision-making and rapid response are greatly aided. The wide range of data necessary for these models to work, and the pulling together of same, require levels of advance thinking and cooperation between key agencies that by itself promotes disaster recovery.

Virtual city-wide, three-dimensional models can facilitate understanding on the part of

Owners

Builders

Architects

Engineers

on how to prioritize restoration efforts after a disaster, making repairs as quickly and effectively as possible. And the models can help with planning the city’s future growth. But, again, it’s what happens before disaster hits that has the greatest impact on survivability.

3D model can simulate the effect of natural disasters on a business, helping visualize how a structure might respond. The job of first responders is assisted greatly, far reducing the risk to their own life and limb. With a simulated digitally-worked scenario, they are provided with precise architectural and engineering data for the building, surrounding cityscape, and underground infrastructure.

A first responder with an iPad knows where the gas pipes, working with a digital terrain through an intelligent utility and telecommunications network. Just think of all the life that technology could save.